Switch-mode power converters for harmonics mitigation in power systems — Technology progress

In this paper, an overview of active power electronics devices, dedicated to the compensation of current harmonics that are generated by the proliferation of nonlinear connected to the distribution power grids, is presented. A special attention will be brought on the discussion of Power Factor Correction (PFC) circuits commonly used in single-phase applications, and single-stage active rectifiers dedicated to the three-phase case. Active and hybrid power filters will also be briefly presented. The study will focus more specifically on the current tracking ability of the considered topologies, DC voltage regulation, performance limitations, design considerations, modeling processes, control complexity, voltage stresses and power efficiency. Other derived structures for high current applications and high power efficiency will also be discussed.